The Silver Line Helpline is a telephone service for older people aged 55 and over across the UK. Run by Age UK, it offers friendship, conversation and support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for people who may be feeling lonely, isolated or worried, or who simply want someone to talk to.
It may be a helpful resource for older clergy, spouses, widows, widowers and other family members who are living alone, feeling isolated, or finding some parts of later life difficult to manage on their own. The Silver Line is not a specialist counselling service. Its focus is on connection, listening and trusted support at any time of day or night.
Callers can ring for a brief chat, a longer conversation, or help with finding other support. Age UK also describes the helpline as a place older people can turn to when they need someone to talk to.
What support does The Silver Line offer?
The Silver Line offers friendship, conversation and support by phone. It is a free, confidential service where older people can speak to a friendly team member at any time, whether they want a quick chat, a listening ear, or help finding further support.
Who is it for?
The helpline is for older people aged 55 and over in the UK.
How might it help?
It may be helpful if later life feels lonely, quiet or overwhelming, or if you would simply benefit from hearing a friendly voice. Because it is open day and night, it may be especially reassuring outside normal office hours.